I recently installed a new suspension to my YJ (4" Rough Country w/MORE 5/8" Shackles). I've also been replacing just about every bushing as well as motor and trans mounts at the same time. Now it is time to get to the steering and get her back on the road! I was going to just order all new parts instead of just getting new tie rod ends because I wanted an all new appearance and its not much more money for the bar and all.

So I did some research and it seems all aftermarket kits (Currie, Rusty's, Rugged Ridge) all have some kind of downfall and some issues. Plus they're more expensive. So I decided to go with a complete setup from a V8 ZJ instead of just getting all new stock YJ parts. Seemed to be the best bang for the buck and parts can be found at the auto store in a pinch. Then I realized how different the setup is and it may be difficult to even get this close to right before I get to the alignment shop. Did I screw up or is this a good bolt on upgrade? Should I have gotten a TJ drag link (pitman arm to passenger knuckle) and a V8 ZJ tie rod (driver knuckle to drag link)? Or is there even a difference? Any tips on what to measure to make the swap close to drive-able before I get an alignment? I already have the drop pitman arm from Rough Country installed. I'm ready to get back on the road!! Thanks and cheers!

ZJ steering is the 'inverted Y' setup and stock YJ is the "inverted T" setup. they are quite different. if i recall and i'm not sure, but the V8 setup will hit the front spring and not be very happy.

stock YJ stuff is just as strong as the stuff. at least up here it is. when i replaced steering on the YJthe tie rod and drag links were all solid steel, one piece, not hollow tube (like the I6 and cherokee steering) only reason V8 stuff is 'stronger' is because its solid.

Rugged ridge includes a stabilizer bracket for a single stabilizer. You don't need dual stabilizers. The RR kit is the same geometry as the stock setup just with a lot more heft and one ton tie rod ends. It is beefy but has no upgrade in regard to geometry.

I realize most steering stabilizers are useless and so is this dual one I'm sure. I just got RC to throw it in for free so why not throw it on there. Its driving no worse now without one. Well my only question then is what would you do if you had it to do over again? Stock Crown Auto products or the RR HD kit? $140 vs $210.